The Euro 2024 final between England and Spain drew massive viewership, but the pre-match buzz saw many fans specifically switching to ITV for their live coverage and expert analysis. Even as England faced a painful 2-1 defeat against Spain, ending hopes of ending their 58-year trophy drought, it was ITV’s punditry team that captured the attention of many viewers seeking insightful build-up to the big match.
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The BBC made a late change to their broadcast for the Euro 2024 final](BBC broadcast studio for Euro 2024 final with presenters and analysts in front of screens)
In a head-to-head battle for ratings, both BBC and ITV, broadcasting from studios in close proximity at the Olympiastadion, deployed their star presenters and analysts to attract the largest audience. BBC’s coverage was fronted by the iconic Gary Lineker, accompanied by former England defenders Micah Richards and Rio Ferdinand. Adding international flavor, former Spanish midfielder Juan Mata, a Euro 2012 winner, joined the BBC team in a late addition.
However, ITV’s panel, led by host Mark Pougatch in Berlin, seemed to resonate more strongly with viewers prior to kick-off. Boasting Manchester United legends Roy Keane and Gary Neville, alongside Arsenal and England icon Ian Wright, ITV presented a formidable lineup. Fan sentiment on social media indicated a clear preference for ITV’s pre-match analysis, although many planned to revert to BBC for the game commentary itself.
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ITV](ITV Euro 2024 punditry panel featuring Roy Keane, Gary Neville, and Ian Wright)
Online forums and social media platforms buzzed with opinions comparing the two channels’ offerings. Comments highlighted the appeal of ITV’s pundits, with viewers appreciating their expertise and dynamic. One fan expressed a common sentiment: “BBC for the game itself. Switch over to ITV for the pundits.” Another echoed this, stating a preference for “the pundits on ITV but prefer commentary from BBC,” showcasing the divided loyalties of viewers wanting the best of both worlds for their Euro 2024 live experience. The strength of ITV’s punditry team was a recurring theme, with many explicitly stating their intention to tune into ITV specifically for the pre-match analysis and potentially even for the entire match coverage.
Full Euro 2024 Lineups: BBC and ITV Presenters, Pundits, and Commentators
For viewers deciding where to watch the Euro 2024 live final, both BBC and ITV presented comprehensive teams. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their on-screen talent:
BBC Presenters:
- Gary Lineker
- Alex Scott
- Gabby Logan
- Mark Chapman
ITV Presenters:
- Mark Pougatch
- Laura Woods
BBC Pundits:
- Alan Shearer
- Micah Richards
- Rio Ferdinand
- Ellen White
- Frank Lampard
- Ashley Williams
- Wayne Rooney
- Joe Hart
- Cesc Fabregas
- Thomas Frank
- David Moyes
- Rachel Corsie
- James McFadden
ITV Pundits:
- Ian Wright
- Roy Keane
- Gary Neville
- Karen Carney
- Graeme Souness
- Eni Aluko
- Ange Postecoglou
- Danny Rohl
- Christina Unkel
BBC Commentators:
- Guy Mowbray
- Robyn Cowen
- Vicki Sparks
- Steve Wilson
- Steve Bower
- Jonathan Pearce
ITV Commentators:
- Sam Matterface
- Clive Tyldesley
- Seb Hutchinson
- Pien Meulensteen
- Joe Speight
BBC Co-commentators:
- Danny Murphy
- Martin Keown
- Jermaine Jenas
- James McFadden
ITV Co-commentators:
- Lee Dixon
- Ally McCoist
- Andros Townsend
In a last-minute adjustment, the BBC had shifted their program start time to 6.30pm, aligning with ITV’s schedule and ensuring viewers could access pre-match coverage an hour and a half before the 8pm kick-off. This change indicated the intense competition between the broadcasters to capture the audience for this highly anticipated Euro 2024 live event.
England vs Spain: A Historical Football Rivalry
Despite the focus on pre-match coverage and punditry, the heart of the evening was the Euro 2024 final itself. England’s defeat extended their wait for a major international trophy, while Spain celebrated their victory. Historically, England and Spain have a long-standing football rivalry, with a rich history of matches.
Here’s a summary of their encounters:
- Total Matches Played: 27
- England Wins: 14
- Draws: 3
- Spain Wins: 10
While the Euro 2024 final ended in disappointment for England fans, the battle for viewership between BBC and ITV added another layer of competition to the event. For many viewers seeking insightful pre-match analysis and engaging punditry, ITV’s Euro 2024 live coverage appeared to be the preferred choice, even as the game itself unfolded on both channels.
